When looking for a sword there is only one question you should ask. What is the intended purpose of the sword? This question should guide you through the purchasing process and determine the type, quality and price of the sword.

Let’s go over a few common answers. Most sword purchases are for decoration, a costume, a sword collection, a production or reenactment or a sporting event. The purpose should determine which sword you should buy. This article should help you help decide the sword you want and the price you pay.

The first consideration is what type of sword you want. The most common types of swords are historical replicas, fantasy and movie swords and tachi sword. You probably have something in mind, so this should be a fairly easy step.

Next is what are you going to do with the sword. Here is where you can really save some money. Many people pay more than they have to or get less than they need by not thinking carefully about this.

Decorative Swords

Buying a decorative sword is simple and can be inexpensive. Just find one you like. There are a couple things you will need to consider. First is the materials used. Does the sword have a stainless steel blade? Carbon steel blades rust and require much more cleaning and maintenance than stainless steel. We recommend you can find one you like with a stainless steel blade. Less maintenance and looks good. Second, what does the sword come with? Many decorative item com with a plaque for wall mounting or a stand. Why not save money and get as much as you can.

Costume Swords

A costume sword is a little more complicated. One main consideration is does it have a scabbard. You’ll need a scabbard if you are going to wear it. Also don’t forget you will also need some way of attaching it to wear. Many scabbards don’t come with a belt, belt frog or hanger. Don’t forget to buy something to attach it to your costume if your sword doesn’t come with one.

To find the appropriate sword, you may have to go with a carbon steel blade for your costume. Many replica swords come only with carbon steel blades. This is not a bad thing. The qualities of the materials are much better and more authentic. They may be a little more trouble but closer to what you will be happy with. However, if you can find a stainless sword that fits, go for it and save.

Sword Collections

Sword collectors generally know a great deal about the swords they buy. The main advice here is shop around, don’t pay too much. Google shopping is a great place to find price comparisons by manufacturers’ numbers. This is a great way to save.

Plays and Reenactments

Here is where it gets more complicated. You have to deal with price, quality and safety. You should always put safety first. A sword of inferior quality can not only spoil your performance but be dangerous if broken. If you have control over your actors and can restrict them to light or moderate use then you can get away with a functional sword under 300. If not we recommend going with a more expensive battle ready sword that can take heavy use.

We also recommend practical swords. Practical swords have unsharpened blade and also feature a rounded point. You might want to also consider fencing swords that come with safety features, like blunted or safety tips. Even an unsharpened blade with a sharp point can cause injury.

There is a lot of good information on the web from production weapons masters on what you might also want to consider.

Sporting Events

Fencing and other martial arts sports that require swords have become more popular over the last few years. They provide great exercise and enjoyment. They can also be very expensive.

The key here is not to wind up with an expensive wall hanger. Until you are sure the sport is for you, there are a lot of stores on the web that carry good and inexpensive equipment. Don’t invest a fortune in expensive equipment and find out it’s not for you. You can always upgrade later and use you less expensive equipment for practice.